The popular Geo Television drama Mann Mast Malang has become one of the most talked-about shows in recent times, having amassed over 600 million YouTube views.
Its influence extends beyond Pakistan, resonating with audiences in India, Nepal, Bangladesh, and other neighboring countries.
Penned by acclaimed screenwriter Nooran Makhdoom — known for her work on Tere Bin — and brought to life under the direction of Ali Faizan, the narrative follows the evolving conflict between two central characters, Riya and Kabir Khan, once close acquaintances turned adversaries.
With 49 episodes already on air, Mann Mast Malang continues to stir heated conversations online.
The most recent installment introduced a scene where Kabir’s elder sibling, Mobeen, seeks a second marriage in hopes of becoming a father.
Meanwhile, his first wife, visibly distressed and battling emotional turmoil, is shown smoking — a portrayal that hasn’t sat well with viewers.
A wave of criticism flooded social media shortly after the episode aired.
Many fans condemned the depiction of smoking, particularly by a female character, citing concerns over the influence such visuals may have on society.
One user questioned the director’s intentions, lamenting, “Where is this narrative headed? This kind of content only harms our social fabric.” Others were more direct, arguing that promoting harmful habits under the guise of drama is both inappropriate and irresponsible.
Some critics specifically called out the show’s writer, accusing her of repeating the same formula that allegedly marred Tere Bin.
One particularly scathing comment read, “Nooran Makhdoom never fails to disappoint — she always finds a way to make her scripts more controversial.” Another viewer pointed out the realism of the smoking scene, saying, “She’s not acting; she’s genuinely exhaling smoke from her nose.”
Many demanded stricter content guidelines, arguing that simply displaying a warning label like “Smoking Kills” is not enough. “This is not awareness — it’s normalization,” a viewer added. “Our dramas should reflect values and teachings that uplift society, not scenes that glamorize damaging behavior.”
